Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register?

Select the "Register Now" button on the home page to begin the registration process.  Choose the medical or non-medical group.  You must have an active TN medical license and be able to provide this information to register in the medical group.  Create your username and password.  Once your registration is complete, you may use your username and password at anytime to update your contact information.   Contact information should updated at least annually.  Through the information you provide will how you will be contacted in the event of an emergency, so, it is important that you keep your contact information up to date.

Is my personal data safe?

Every possible step relating to data integrity and security is taken by the staff to prevent abuse and protect participants' privacy.  Only site administrators will have access to your data.   All administrators will be trained in proper security and privacy procedures. Your information will be contained within a central, secure database. Your information will ONLY be used to engage you in activities related to your local volunteer program.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone can volunteer. There is a need for volunteers with all types of skills and expertise.  Individuals with medical licenses such as MDs, RNs, LPNs, EMTs etc.  are needed.  Individuals that are skilled in: interpretation (languages and hearing impaired), administrative and clerical work, data entry and traffic control are needed.

Do I have to have any special training?

Your local volunteer coordinator will contact you regarding training opportunities. FREE training to volunteers is provided on a variety of emergency related topics in various ways from web based to classroom style trainings.  When you are asked to deploy, just-in-time training will be provided to prepare you with what can be expected, and what you need to know for that deployment.

Is participation required?

Training opportunities are not required but recommended for all volunteers. If a deployment becomes necessary, you will be contacted and asked about your availability.  Although the primary function of a volunteer is to respond to disasters or emergencies, you may be asked to volunteer for a non-emergency event that your local unit is supporting.   All volunteers can accept or refuse a request for help. No matter what the extent of the need is, these are voluntary deployments, and you are not required to participate.

How will I know if I am needed?

Requests for volunteers will be sent utilizing the contact information that you have provided.  In the event, that you are contacted, you will be given necessary information regarding the event and the help being requested. Therefore, it is imperative that your contact information is accurate and up to date.

What if multiple programs contact me to volunteer during a crisis?

All volunteers have responsibilities that must be met before they can respond, whether it is your family, job, or other group or organization. You will need to decide for yourself what commitments you can make and what your preference is for deployment. Prior to accepting deployment, you should check with others and obtain any needed consent from your employer if deployment would interfere with your work schedule.

What is my responsibility to my current employer?

You must make necessary arrangements with your employer to take the time to volunteer. We recognize that your employer may have needs, including needs related to the specific disaster. The conditions under which an employee will be released to volunteer in an emergency remain between the employer and the employee.

I have an out-of-state medical license; am I still eligible to register?

Yes, out-of-state volunteers are accepted in the system.  However, only in-state licenses can be verified therefore you may be approved as a non-medical group member.

What is the length of deployment?

There is no specific required length of service; it is entirely voluntary. Deployments may last 1 to 14 days however special circumstances may require longer deployments. Your participation is expected to be determined by your own availability. Each volunteer should determine his/her current availability, based on the following:

·  What type of incident are you willing to respond to?

·  What distance are you willing to travel?

·  How long are you willing to be deployed?

When you receive the notification to volunteer, you will also receive information regarding the event and other important instructions so that you may determine whether you want to volunteer.

Can I specify where I want to volunteer?

Yes. You can indicate that you are only willing to volunteer in your local area and/or that you are willing to volunteer in the event of a larger emergency that occurs in other communities, statewide, or even in other states that may require your assistance.

How should I prepare for deployment?

You will be provided a recommended deployment list prior to any deployment.

What types of risks may I be exposed to during an emergency?

Volunteers will be needed in different types of emergencies including floods, hurricanes, tornados, fires, and events that may be chemical, biological, or radiological in nature. Volunteers will receive information about the event and any risks associated with the event when requested.  Volunteers will not be asked to attempt or to perform any work for which he/she is not trained or prepared. Each volunteer must ask themselves, "What types of incidents am I willing to respond to?" prior to accepting a volunteer assignment.

Will I be compensated for my time or other expenses?

Currently, no provisions exist for compensating volunteers for time lost from work, mileage, meal costs, etc. However, in the event of an emergency, such provisions may become available, but they are not defined at this time.